Beginning Temgesic

[bedith6]

Hi. I have picked up my prescription today for Temgesic. but am now a little concerned. The neurologist. sent a care plan with the tablets which said I should just take half a tablet at bedtime but at the same time to keep taking the Tramadol which to my mind seems wrong. It is my understanding that Temgesic should not be taken with another opioid because the Temgesic blocks out the effects and can also cause withdrawal symptoms. I am supposed to stay on this low dose for four months until he rings me again. Given the severity of my RLS I know this won’t be enough after a few days let alone four months, I think I have read other people’s posts saying they take two and I think Shumba takes more than that. I realise I should start on a low dose but what do others on this think about the length of time I am supposed to stay on it and would you still take Tramadol albeit gradually cutting the dosage down gradually.? Please help as I am at a loss and I’ve waited so long for this medication I so want it to work. Hope everyone else is getting some sleep.

[LotteM]

What strength are you Temgesic tablets? I assume 0.2mg (=200mcg) as that seems the only strength available. If you have generic buprenorphine, that also comes in other/higher strengths.

I don't know on what authority you base that buprenorpbine and tramadol con not be combined. Tramadol works partly on dopamine receptors whereas buprenorphine acts in three different opioid receptors, which are different from the dopamine ones. I know opioids can be 'potentiated' by e.g. paracetamol, but I don't know whether that works out for tramadol.

Why not start as directed with Temgesic. And if it doesn't suffice after, say an hour, then add half and maybe later your full current tramadol dose. And please document the results. That gives you something to fall back on when you need to contact your doctor when this/his approach fails.

Please do not wait the full four months if it doesn't work. That is negligent after a change in treatment. Normally one would expect a doctor to check on you after 1-2 weeks max.

I do hope it works though. 🤞🏼

[bedith6 in reply to LotteM]

Thank you for your reply LottieM , as you thought the Temgesic are 200mcg so I will be taking 100mcg at bedtime. Presently I am taking 150 mg between 6pm and 10pm,of Tramadol also 20mg Temazapam which the consultant wants me to cut in half and gradually come off them . I am thinking I will take the Temgesic after this just before I go to bed. Best wishes and thanks so much for your help.

[LotteM in reply to bedith6]

Good plan. I hope it brings relief, at least some.